New Caledonia: French legislative elections scheduled June 30 and July 7

New Caledonia will hold the French legislative elections from 07:00 to 17:00 in two rounds, June 30 and July 7. Over 222,900 residents are eligible to vote in over 300 polling stations. Turnout may be affected by ongoing territorywide tensions and transport disruptions following protests over proposed electoral reforms. Officials have prohibited public gatherings on polling weekends as a precaution.

Heightened security is in place nationwide; authorities are further bolstering security to maintain law and order during the vote, with the tightest security and traffic restrictions likely near polling stations. A nightly curfew, in addition to a ban on the sales of alcohol and the movement of firearms, has been in effect since violent unrest broke out May 13. Although no groups have called for demonstrations on polling days, nationalist and pro-independence outfits may hold unannounced opposing gatherings near government buildings, mainly in Noumea. Security forces may clash with demonstrators, especially during attempts to remove any ongoing protester roadblocks in urban centers. Vandalism and arson cannot be ruled out, potentially prompting enhanced security curbs.